Oba Frank Lords

About Oba Frank Lords

OBA Frank Lords, born Francisco Martin in Havana, Cuba, moved to the U.S. at age 5. At 10, he learned percussion from a Santero called "El Congo," whose African rhythms and knowledge captivated him. Meeting his idol Desi Arnaz further ignited his passion for performing. OBA played with garage bands and worked at Miami's T.K. Records, where his performance on the hit "Miami Heat Wave" shaped his sound. Initiated into Santeria in 1980, OBA advanced as a drummer and singer in the African Yoruba dialect. His group Secret Society achieved success with "We Belong Together," a Miami Freestyle scene hit. After Secret Society, OBA joined Dogma and the Afro-Cuban Rhythms, producing hits like "Mas Suave." OBA formed LatinXpress, hitting the Billboard Dance Chart with "Descarga" and later with "Chango." Collaborating with MURK, their track "Dark Beat" topped charts and earned accolades. A spiritual hiatus in 2002 led to a nine-year break, after which OBA returned with "Rumble," reaching Billboard's top 20. OBA continues to produce and remix, working with artists like Kristine W and Sizzla. His "305 Hous" blend of Afro-Cuban music and house beats has seen success on various labels. OBA, Oscar G., and Katiahshé developed A.C.H.E., the Afro-Cuban House Experiment, promising exciting new projects. OBA says, "STAY TUNED FOR THE NEXT BOMB TO DROP ANY MINUTE!"